Culture & Majesty

For young or old, this is an opportunity to explore. Climb the steps to the castle keep and enjoy the view across the majestic River Shannon or climb higher still to the castle turrets and look across the rooftops of the whole town. Then take a step back in history.

Just 10 minutes from Athlone in Moate, you find Dún na Sí Amenity & Heritage Park, a wonderful get away that’s full of natural beauty. With a series of paths, a wetland reserve, parklands and a children’s playground, it’s a fabulous place to get out for a stroll. You’ll see lots of birdlife, native trees and planting. There’s also a tourlough that’s bursting with life.

Stroll across the bridge in Athlone and nestling on the right hand bank you’ll find the stunning Luan Gallery. A showcase for the most interesting artists from the midlands, Ireland and abroad, the building itself is a modern work of art in its own right. With floor to ceiling windows offering uninterrupted views across the majestic Shannon water, it’s a space that gives the work real room to breath. There’s always an eclectic and balanced mix of media on display from painting to sculpture to textiles. Entry is completely free and if you’d like a one on one tour, that’s free too. All you have to do is ask. What’s more the collection on display changes every two months so there’s always something new to see. A feast for the eyes, it’s a fantastic way to spend some time.

Immerse yourself in over 250 years of Irish whiskey making at Kilbeggan Distillery, the heart of Kilbeggan town for two centuries. See the 19th century water wheel that’s still in use and the steam engine, which is still fired up on special occasions. You’ll enjoy a visit to the old warehouses and even get to meet the onsite distillers. But no trip to a distillery is complete without a wee drop. So a tour that’s literally steeped in history, treat yourself to a master class in tasting Kilbeggan’s four unique Irish Whiskeys, Greenore Single Grain, Kilbeggan Irish whiskey, Tyrconnell Single Malt and Connemara Peated Single Malt. If you’re the designated driver don’t worry. You’ll get a taster size to enjoy the moment you get home.

This is a place for where you’ll want to pack a picnic and spend the day. Whether you enjoy walking, cycling, angling or bird watching, Lough Boora Parklands has something for you. Featuring walking and biking trails that stretch from 3km to 16km, you enjoy an abundance of wild flowers and wild life along the way.

In the heart of Ireland lies the award-winning Ballinahown Eco-Craft village. This quaint country village on the outskirts of Athlone Town is a creative hub for Irish designers and makers. Explore Celtic Roots Studio, renowned for carving stunning sculptures and jewellery made from authentic Irish bogwood. Take a tour in the Ecomomusee, and learn the history of Ireland through the eyes of the ancient bog oak. Have a go and try your hand at the art of bogwood sculpture and feel 5,000 years of history in your hands. Browse the pretty village craft shop showcasing the largest selection of craft designers, artists, and creatives in the midlands ranging from handmade jewellery, accessories, artisan food and homeware. Savour the traditional ambience of the Tea Rooms or meander through the wilderness walk, merging with the village playground and picnic area. Go green with its eco-friendly philosophy and immerse yourself in a community that’s all about creativity.

On the western shores of Lough Ree you’ll discover an unexpected historical gem. On St. John’s Point peninsula lies the abandoned medieval town of Rindoon. With its town wall, castle, medieval hospital, church and mill there is nothing that compares to it anywhere in Ireland or the UK. Built in the first half of the 13th century and abandoned a few hundred years later, the site has remained largely untouched.

In the 6th century St Ciaran arrived to build a church on the banks of the mighty Shannon in the very center of Ireland and Clonmacnoise was born in Early Christian Ireland. It began as a modest settlement but over time the huts were replaced impressive stone buildings. It became a thriving centre for learning and creativity. So much so, it was were the High King of Ireland was buried in the year 915. Today with it’s two perfectly preserved round towers, three high crosses and large collection of early Christian grave slabs it is a ‘must-see’ part of any visit to Athlone and while exploring Ireland's Ancient East. Why not make it that bit more special and travel down by boat? Viking Tours will take you there and back.